UFC 229 Preview: Khabib Nurmagomedov v Conor McGregor
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Latest odds ahead of Saturday’s Vegas showdown
After the antics, the bluster and the histrionics, it’s back down to business for Conor McGregor in Las Vegas this weekend as he takes on Khabib Nurmagomedov in UFC 229.
The Notorious hasn’t been seen in the cage since extending his record to 21-3 against Eddie Alvarez in New York two years ago. He faces a tough test against The Eagle, who is the current undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion.
Who will come out on top in Las Vegas? The Coral News Team have taken time out to preview the chances of both fighters.
Khabib’s odds and chances
Lightweight Champion Khabib heads into the fight as the odds-on 10/17 favourite. The Eagle is 26-0 so far and won his two most recent contests by unanimous decision.
He’s also much more likely to be up to speed than McGregor. Khabib fought just six months ago, while his opponent hasn’t contested in UFC since 2016. That could give him an edge.
But it’s more likely that the Russian’s groundwork could provide the route to victory. His wrestling background and powerful takedowns are a large factor behind his unblemished record. McGregor showed weakness in defending them against Chad Mendes at UFC 189. Khabib has an unquestionably high level of stamina and won’t be dissuaded if he’s denied early on.
He’s 21/20 to win by way of KO/TKO/Submission, with an outright Submission victory priced at 9/4.
McGregor’s odds and chances
After last year’s Money Fight with Floyd Mayweather, it’s back to the bread and butter for McGregor in Vegas this weekend. The Notorious won the Lightweight crown on his last UFC appearance but was later stripped of the title due to inactivity. Now he’s back. And he’s 29/20 to reclaim his Championship.
This won’t be an easy task, though. Especially given the pair’s contrasting styles. McGregor’s floor game has improved but all three of his defeats have come via submission. So it’s no surprise the Notorious has been keen to talk up his striking technique ahead of Saturday night.
18 of his 23 wins have come by way of KO or TKO, and previous performances suggest he’ll be keen to get on the front foot early on. If he gets into a striking contest with Khabib, there’s likely to be only one winner. McGregor is 3/2 to win by KO/TKO/Submission, and 12/1 to do so by Decision.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
